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The best time to visit Niagara Falls
The falls are worth seeing in every season. Here is what each time of year looks like, so you can pick the trip that suits you. Our suite in Thorold is about 15 minutes from Clifton Hill all year round.
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Apr – May
Spring
Boat tours reopen, the gardens bloom and crowds are lighter. Good value for mid-week stays.
- Fewer crowds and lower prices mid-week
- Boat tours reopen for the season
- Gardens and parkland start to bloom
- Cool mornings, so bring a jacket
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Jun – Aug
Summer
Peak season. Fireworks over the falls, long evenings on Clifton Hill and busy patios. Book early.
- The busiest and liveliest season
- Evening fireworks over the falls (seasonal, check the schedule)
- Long days for wine country and patios
- Book boat tours and dinner ahead
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Sep – Nov
Fall
Harvest season in wine country, autumn colour along the gorge and the Niagara Grape & Wine Festival.
- Harvest season in Niagara wine country
- Autumn colour along the gorge and parkway
- Grape and wine festival events
- Comfortable weather and thinner crowds after Labour Day
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Dec – Mar
Winter
The Winter Festival of Lights, icy falls views and the Icewine Festival in January.
- Winter Festival of Lights across the city
- Icewine Festival in the wine region
- Ice formations and misty falls views
- Quiet, good-value stays; dress warmly
Good to know
- Crossing to the U.S. side over the Rainbow Bridge? Bring a passport or NEXUS card.
- Park once and ride the WEGO visitor bus between Clifton Hill, Fallsview and the parkway attractions.
- The Niagara Parks Adventure Pass bundles several attractions and can save money for families.
- Weekdays are quieter than weekends, and mornings quieter than afternoons, at the main viewpoints.
Keep planning your Niagara trip
Ready to pick your dates?